2) an action that started in the past and carries/d on up to a later moment in time; (but in that case what's the difference between 1) and 2) ? I'd say that the focus is a little different. The simple form focuses on the present.

A: Does Tom get angry when the bus is late. B: No, he doesn't care. He always reads.

The perfect focuses on the past until now.

A: Is it true that Tom doesn't like books? B: No, he has always read. He loves books.

In other words, it's just the standard difference between simple and perfect tenses.

3) either a reproach or a neutral comment depending on the context ? Yes

Hela, I have to rush out the door now. I'll come back later, or someone else may comment on the following. Clive